With cold weather on the horizon in Muldrow, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Air Service Co. heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your system a welcoming place for rodents, which could chew wires.
Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner
Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers
Plastic or vinyl covers stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly while keeping grass clippings and sticks out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will halt leaves, nuts and other waste from getting into your equipment.
Related: Tips for Cleaning Your System
Cover Your Air Conditioner Before Severe Weather
You can temporarily cover your air conditioner in the winter when you know a snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is imminent in Muldrow. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Your AC System Run Efficiently
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Air Service Co. offers assistance. Give us a call at 918-212-8943 or schedule an appointment online.